Terminology Service for NFDI4Health

serous membrane

Go to external page http://purl.obolibrary.org/obo/UBERON_0000042


Term info

Label

serous membrane

database cross reference
Subsets

uberon_slim, vertebrate_core

Contributor

https://github.com/cmungall

definition

Multi-tissue structure that is comprised of a secretory epithelial layer (mesothelium) and a connective tissue layer.

depicted by

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4e/Ens.png/200px-Ens.png, http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4e/Ens.png

external definition

a smooth membrane consisting of a thin layer of cells which excrete serous fluid. Serous membranes line and enclose several body cavities, known as serous cavities, where they secrete a lubricating fluid which reduces friction from muscle movement. Serosa is not to be confused with adventitia, a connective tissue layer which binds together structures rather than reducing friction between them. Each serous membrane is composed of a secretory epithelial layer and a connective tissue layer underneath. The epithelial layer, known as mesothelium, consists of a single layer of avascular flat nucleated cells (cuboidal epithelium) which produce the lubricating serous fluid. This fluid has a consistency similar to thin mucus. These cells are bound tightly to the underlying connective tissue. The connective tissue layer provides the blood vessels and nerves for the overlying secretory cells, and also serves as the binding layer which allows the whole serous membrane to adhere to organs and other structures.[WP], A multi-tissue structure that is comprised of a secretory epithelial layer and a connective tissue layer.[TAO]

external ontology notes

in FMA, SM = mesothelium + connective tissue. It excludes the cavity. Serous sac = SM + cavity. Note that the SM is a subtype of wall in FMA.

has exact synonym

tunica serosa, wall of serous sac

id

UBERON:0000042

imported from

http://purl.obolibrary.org/obo/uberon.owl, http://purl.obolibrary.org/obo/cl.owl